Every city has its defining moment, its time in the sun when it stands straight and proud, ready to face the world; ready to face the future. For us, it is not the arrival of the new millennium. Hong Kong's defining moment arrived three years early.
Nineteen-ninety-seven. The year in which Hong Kong captured the whole world's attention with its successful reunification with China. The year we are hosting the annual meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund.
So 1997 is cause for celebration on many levels and in many ways. But, above all, we are celebrating the collective achievements of Hong Kong - now part of a bigger destiny as a Special Administrative Region of China.
Between what we have become and the greater heights I believe we have yet to reach, lies a vision. It is one of Hong Kong as the international financial and business hub, not just for the Chinese mainland, but serving the whole Asia-Pacific region.
Nine years ago, as part of that vision, the Trade Development Council provided Hong Kong with a world-class convention and exhibition centre. Millions of people have passed through its doors. Billions of dollars of direct business have been done, with billions more generated in spin-off benefits for the economy.
Now, in 1997, Hong Kong's year, we have expanded that vision. On behalf of the Government, we completed in June an extension to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. It has more than doubled its capital. Hong Kong is able to welcome even more people, generate more business and organise even larger events.